Overview & Reviews

When Chevrolet sent the first Impala off the assembly line in 1958, it was meant to be "a prestige car within the reach of the average American citizen." It would seem that the company was successful; six decades on, the Chevrolet Impala has become one of America's most well-known nameplates.

Since the new millennium, the modern Impala has served as Chevrolet's main full-size sedan. While "prestige car" isn't really an apt descriptor anymore, the Impala has offered a roomy interior (with available six-passenger seating) along with strong and increasingly fuel-efficient engines. In our opinion, older, used Impalas from this time period aren't likely going to be the best choice for a large sedan, as they suffer from substandard interior quality and forgettable driving dynamics. But the newest Impala, thanks to its many improvements, is certainly worth considering.

Current Chevrolet Impala
Today's five-passenger Impala starts with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 195 horsepower 187 pound-feet of torque. An optional 3.6-liter V6 makes 305 hp and 264 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels. Also offered is the mild hybrid Eco model with an "eAssist" powertrain that combines a 182-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder with a small 15-hp electric motor, providing the best fuel economy of the Impala lineup.

The Impala features LS, LT and LTZ trim levels. Standard feature highlights for the LS include a power-adjustable driver seat, full power accessories, Bluetooth, USB/iPod connectivity and a color display. The LT adds alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control and the MyLink infotainment interface with an 8-inch touchscreen display. Most LT options are bundled into packages and include such items as a sunroof, keyless ignition/entry and extra safety features. The LTZ gets these items as standard, along with leather upholstery. Other options, depending on trim level, include navigation, premium audio, 20-inch wheels, adaptive cruise control and ventilated front seats.

In reviews and ratings, we've concluded that the latest Chevrolet Impala distinguishes itself from other large sedans with sharp styling and a capacious trunk, though it loses points for some flimsy interior plastics, a fussy MyLink interface and middling fuel economy figures. Overall, though, the current Impala is fully worthy of your consideration if you're shopping for a large sedan.

Used Chevrolet Impala Models
The current Chevrolet Impala represents the nameplate's 10th generation, which was introduced in the 2014 model year. Mechanically, it's related to the latest Buick LaCrosse and Cadillac XTS. Compared to the previous Impala, the latest generation is more stylish, with bigger curves, bolder lines and a bit more length. Inside, there's a modern design, higher-quality materials and up-to-date electronics.

The previous, ninth-generation Chevrolet Impala was produced for the 2006-'13 model years. Improvements on this model compared to the previous-generation Impala included new engines, more composed handling, a higher-quality interior and updated styling. Even so, we generally regarded this Impala as pretty forgettable and outclassed by any of its contemporaries.

Impalas of this generation were offered in three main trim levels: entry-level LS, midgrade LT and range-topping LTZ. From 2006-'09, there was also an Impala SS.

Typical features for the LS models included 16-inch wheels, a front bench seat, air-conditioning, full power accessories, a tilt steering wheel, a power driver seat, a single-CD audio system with an MP3 jack, and keyless entry. Moving up to the LT model added alloy wheels and a few more features, while the LTZ included 17-inch (later 18-inch) alloys, heated leather seats and a Bose audio system. The SS came with monochromatic exterior paint, a performance-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels and a rear spoiler. LS and LT models could be optioned with a front bench seat, which increased passenger capacity to six.

Until 2012, the LS and LT came with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produced 211 hp. Standard on the LTZ of the same period was a 3.9-liter V6 good for 230 hp. All of these Chevy Impalas came with a four-speed automatic transmission. The Chevy Impala SS model of this period had a 303-hp 5.3-liter V8 and the four-speed auto. For 2012 and 2013, all Impalas received a new 300-hp 3.6-liter V6 and a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine yielded quicker acceleration and better fuel economy to boot.

In reviews at the time, we found that the ninth-generation Impala provided a number of big-sedan perks, including a smooth ride, quiet interior, seating for six, decent crash test ratings and a generously sized trunk. The problem was that the Impala didn't excel in any of these areas and was generally hamstrung by underwhelming performance, bland styling, cheap-looking interior materials and a lack of feature availability. Contemporaries like the Dodge Charger, Hyundai Azera or Toyota Avalon make for better used choices.

The eighth-generation Impala was offered from 2000-'05, marking the resurrection of the Impala as a mainstream offering. There were only minimal changes during its production run. Its basic dimensions are very similar to those of its successor, but it was even less competitive in its class. For this generation, there were two main trim levels -- base and LS. In 2004, Chevy added the SS trim.

The base model was powered by a 3.4-liter V6 engine that produced 180 hp. Stepping up to LS trim got you a 200-hp, 3.8-liter V6. The SS had a supercharged version of the 3.8-liter V6 making 240 hp. Though popular in terms of sales, this Impala did not fare well in reviews conducted by Edmunds.com editors. Noted downsides included bland interior and exterior design, vague steering and a soggy suspension on base and LS models.

Prior to this, there was a short-lived Chevrolet Impala SS. Offered from 1994-'96, it was based on the rear-drive Caprice. The SS featured a 260-hp, 5.7-liter V8 derived from the Corvette, large 17-inch wheels and tires, a sport tuned suspension, a monochromatic exterior (black only in its first year) and many hardware upgrades normally fitted to law enforcement vehicles. Today, the ‘90s Impala SS's have taken on a "collectible" quality.

There are also plenty of Impalas left from earlier decades. Those early Impalas were often America's most popular car, and they still hold significance today. Throughout the 1960s, the Chevy Impala dominated the sales charts, culminating in 1965 when more than 1 million were sold. Though the popularity of smaller, midsize muscle cars slowly ate away at sales of the Impala, it continued to sell in big numbers, registering as the best-selling car in America in 1973. The Impala nameplate languished in the early 1980s, eventually getting dropped in 1986 in favor of the Caprice designation.

User Reviews:

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  Good car for the money - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By cdestep - July 6 - 6:00 am

  I bought this car in April 2008. I traded in a 2007 Dodge Caliber SXT that was fully loaded with every option under the sun for a plain jane full sized car to accomidate our family of five. The impala is quite comfortable and has a huge trunk. Exterior styling is fairly attractive and the interior is straight forward and easy to operate. I received good factory incentives which is why I purchased the car in the first place. Most of my driving is short in town driving so gas mileage is about 19-24 MPG. The automatic lights and stereo volume are nice features. There are several features I really miss about my old car, but all in all not a bad car for 18K.

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  Disappointed - 2017 Chevrolet Impala
  By Charles young - July 3 - 5:40 pm

  I purchased the 2017 Impala lt.I had test driven three other Impalas.The ride was very good.The one that I have is worst riding car that I have ever had.I does not smooth out bumps on streets or highways.I find myself bracing for bumps.All the reviews that read ( including Edmunds ) talked about how smooth the ride was.That is not the case for the one that I have.I am very very disappointed.

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  They Could Do Better - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By No More GM for me - June 26 - 12:26 pm

  Overall, not too bad but not much of an improvement on previous version. Theyd better look out because the new Ford Taurus has this one beat by a long shot. Thatll be the second car for this family (bye-bye GM)

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  Kens New Chevy Impala - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Kensakad2 - June 23 - 2:00 am

  Since buying this car, I have driven in the snow and wet pavments and I am very impressed with the cars proformance and stopping ability. On a long trip of over 100 miles, I got about 29 mpg and thats quite acceptable to me. The one draw back to me is driver visibility, the post and rearview mirror are in the way.

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  The Best - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By chelsea - June 22 - 12:20 pm

  If you want a car that is a smooth ride on the highway but at the same time fun to drive this is the car for you. Depending on how far you go, it eats up gas, but thats what happens when you go to a bigger car. Overall, I can go down the highway and before I know it I am doing 80 mph or more.

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  07 Impala SSweet - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By jimmyo0317 - June 21 - 2:40 pm

  If you are looking for a practical sedan with style and power, this is your car. This car is a real sleeper. GM has finally gotten the audio system right with XM, Ipod jack, and Bose speakers. The interior is very nice and the 303 HP V8 5.3L packs a lot of power. I had an 02 Impala and put 120k on it in 5 years with only a catalytic converter issue at 60k which GM fixed under warranty. This 07 is much nicer. The ride is quiet and smooth. The fuel management system is only noticebale by the savings at the gas pump - the power is there when you need it. I only wish that it was RWD.

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  My First Brand New Car - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By SMoothDrRod - June 12 - 10:00 am

  So for the first time in my life, I actually went out looking for a car, a brand new car. I wanted decent space, comfortable yet competent handling, etc. and I ultimately ended spend 2 months going through all of the local delearships in my area test driving every car in the "Large Sedan" Class. Ultimately it came down to a 2004 Accord V-6, or the 2004 Impala SS. The accord takes forever to downshift (when I press the gas down, I expect the machine to down shift) and the Transmission of the accord was a little less smooth in comparison to the ultra silky performance of the Impalas transmission. In a word overall this vehicle is amazing.

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  Impala SS - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By James Showers - May 31 - 7:43 am

  I am very impressed. Have found nothing wrong with the car. I have owned 7 Corvettes. This is my wifes car and it impresses me with the Vette like performance prior to 1997. We bought an Impala LS in 2000, but this one puts it to shame. I look forward to driving it when my wife lets me. Chevrolet has outdone itself and has a winner here. I love the polished aluminum wheels and the exhaust rumble. Fantastic automobile!

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  Best Car Ive Owned - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Kevin - May 18 - 10:33 am

  I had to buy a new vehicle after an accident. I did a lot of research and I had narrowed it down to the Imapla and a Camry. I drove an 07 Impala and decided that was the car (I bought an 06 to get the price break). The LTZ has the 3.9L engine. It is very powerful, even in a car the size of the Impala. The seats are just great. The leather is soft and comforatble. The interior styling is very clean and refreshing. The trunk is huge! I really think GM has gotten much better. They think of little things that you just dont find in other cars like the delayed door locking allowing you to open another door after pushing the lock button. Very nice!

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  Satisfied - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By Denor - May 12 - 6:10 am

  I have a 2007 LT3. Car looks good, nice interior, good build quality, handles well. 3.9 engine is smooth and offers very adequate power. Gas mileage is disapointing. I had a 2003 with 3.4 engine that would get well over 30 mpg on hwy and mid to upper 20s in town driving. LT3 with 3.9 gets 16 mpg in town aND 25 on hwy. Also wind and road noise are excessive.